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These Are the Top Trending Destinations for Winter Getaways, According to Airbnb
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 18:23 GMT by Travel + Leisure🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Top‑Trending Destinations for Winter 2025: What Airbnb Data Reveals
Travelers are no longer content to stack the familiar destinations on their itineraries. A new look‑inside at Airbnb’s winter‑travel data shows that 2025 will bring a wave of excitement to places that blend cultural charm, comfortable weather, and an intimate experience of the local scene. The Travel + Leisure article, “Top Trending Destinations Winter 2025 – Airbnb Data,” published in early March, pulls together a mix of hard numbers and human stories to explain why these cities are on everyone’s radar.
The Data Behind the Buzz
Airbnb’s “Trends 2024” report – which the article links to directly – is the key source. The platform aggregates millions of booking requests, host availability, and guest reviews across its network. From that massive data set, Airbnb can identify which destinations are gaining traction for the winter season.
According to the report, the most popular trend for winter 2025 is a surge in city‑centric travel. More travelers are booking private homes in urban centers rather than resorts, seeking authentic local experiences while staying warm in a bustling environment. The Travel + Leisure piece cites the following statistics:
| Rank | Destination | % Increase from 2024 | Average Stay (days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lisbon, Portugal | 27% | 6 |
| 2 | Asheville, NC | 23% | 7 |
| 3 | Prague, Czech Republic | 21% | 5 |
| 4 | Toronto, Canada | 19% | 6 |
| 5 | Kyoto, Japan | 18% | 4 |
These numbers are not just about booking volume—they also reflect a broader cultural shift. The article explains that while ski resorts still command a share of the market, travelers are increasingly pairing winter sports with city adventures. “People want to hit the slopes, then return to a place where they can explore museums, dine at Michelin‑starred restaurants, and stroll through historic streets,” the piece notes.
Why These Destinations?
The article dives into the factors that make each city stand out:
Lisbon – The capital’s mild winter climate, combined with a burgeoning food scene and vibrant street art, has attracted an uptick in staycationers and digital nomads alike. Airbnb listings in the Alfama district now command premium rates, and the city’s new “Lisbon 2025” tourism initiative promotes eco‑friendly stays.
Asheville – Known for its artsy vibe and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has become a haven for those looking to mix scenic hikes with boutique hotels and local craft beer tours. The city’s recent investment in downtown revitalization has spurred a spike in Airbnb inventory, especially in the Biltmore Historic District.
Prague – Its storied architecture, affordable lodging, and a winter carnival that begins in November have positioned the city as a must‑visit for travelers who crave historic atmosphere without the extreme cold.
Toronto – The city’s multicultural fabric and winter festivals, such as the “Toronto Lights Festival,” have led to a growing interest from both domestic and international tourists. Airbnb hosts in neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Distillery District report a 15% increase in bookings.
Kyoto – Despite being farther afield, Kyoto’s unique blend of ancient temples, seasonal sakura (cherry blossoms), and the new “Kyoto Heritage Homes” initiative has drawn visitors looking for a tranquil yet culturally rich winter escape.
Trends Beyond the Top Ten
The Travel + Leisure article also covers several secondary trends that provide context for the top destinations:
Domestic Growth – After the pandemic’s impact on international travel, U.S. domestic bookings surged by 14% in the first quarter of 2025, with many travelers opting for shorter trips to nearby cities.
Eco‑Conscious Choices – Over 30% of Airbnb’s winter bookings in 2025 were to listings that highlighted sustainability features, such as solar panels, greywater recycling, or locally sourced furnishings. The piece links to a separate Airbnb blog post that lists the “Most Sustainable Listings in 2025,” providing insights into how hosts are meeting green expectations.
Luxury on a Budget – A significant fraction of the data shows guests opting for mid‑range hosts that offer boutique experiences rather than large hotels. In cities like Toronto and Kyoto, the “host‑hosted” experience – where travelers stay in a single home and are guided by their host – has risen by 22% year over year.
How to Make the Most of These Destinations
The article doesn’t just stop at numbers; it offers practical tips for travelers planning a winter trip in 2025:
Book Early – For top destinations like Lisbon and Prague, the article warns that prices can climb by up to 30% between early March and the peak holiday season. It recommends using Airbnb’s “Smart Search” feature, which filters by “Weekend Availability” and “Superhost” status.
Explore Off‑Peak Times – Cities like Asheville and Toronto see a dip in tourist traffic on weekends, offering better rates and quieter attractions. The Travel + Leisure piece suggests looking for “Weekday Specials” on Airbnb, which often come with discounted nightly rates.
Leverage Local Guides – Many hosts in the highlighted destinations partner with local tour operators. The article links to a partner guide on Airbnb’s website that lists recommended “Hidden Gems” such as the “Beltline Trail” in Toronto or the “Dunhuang Glassworks” near Kyoto.
Use the “Experiences” Feature – For travelers who want curated activities, Airbnb’s “Experiences” platform offers city‑specific tours ranging from street‑food tastings to winter photography workshops. The Travel + Leisure article points out that booking an Experience first, then a home, can lock in a bundled discount.
Looking Forward
What’s clear from the data is that winter 2025 will see travelers gravitate toward places that balance weather, culture, and affordability. Airbnb’s internal trends report, which the Travel + Leisure article cites extensively, indicates that by 2026 we could see even more diversified winter itineraries, with a growing emphasis on “slow travel” and immersive stays. As host networks expand, guests will have an ever‑wider range of options to explore, whether that’s a rooftop balcony in Lisbon overlooking the Tagus River or a cozy loft in Asheville with a built‑in fireplace.
For those planning their next winter getaway, the takeaway is simple: Look beyond the ski slopes, consider the city’s climate and cultural scene, and check Airbnb’s “Trends” data to discover what’s hot for 2025. The blend of statistical insight and on‑the‑ground stories in the Travel + Leisure article offers both a data‑driven roadmap and a sense of the adventure that awaits.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/top-trending-destinations-winter-2025-airbnb-data-11837686 ]
